Appeal against rejection of Solwaybank wind farm plan

A renewable energy firm is to appeal against the rejection of plans for a 15-turbine wind farm near the border between Scotland and England.

Dumfries and Galloway Council refused permission for the scheme at Solwaybank in February because of seismic and radar concerns.

Developer RES said both objections had now been withdrawn.

RES said the wind farm, south west of Langholm, could provide enough power for 19,000 homes.

It said the Scottish government has withdrawn objections that wind farms would interfere with the seismological station at Eskdalemuir.

RES said it had also been working with radar operators to address concerns about the impact on air traffic control radars.

Development management Ruth Elder said: “The long-awaited outcome to the Eskdalemuir research has concluded that no further objection is justified in regards to several wind farms including Solwaybank.

“In light of this, and with appropriate mitigation measures now agreed with the MOD and NATS, RES believes that the project should be consented.

“This project has the potential to contribute to the country’s ambitious renewable energy targets as well as provide tangible benefits to the local community.”

The company said it would offer a benefits package to the local community should the application be successful.

Properties closest to the wind farm would be eligible for a minimum discount of £100 off their electricity bills.

The proposed turbines would measure 126.5m from the ground to the tip of the blade.